A guide to the Provence lavender fields
Avignon is an excellent base if you want to spend a day driving around Provence. Most of the lavender farms are within a comfortable 2 hour drive, making day trips easy and scenic.
PROVENCE LAVENDER SEASON
The Provence lavender season usually starts in mid June and stretches to early August, with July being the peak time to catch them in all their glory. To celebrate the summer and the beautiful lavender harvest, many towns and villages in the region organise market and festivals, making your day out a wonderful summer experience.
WHEN TO VISIT THE LAVENDER FIELDS?
JUNE: Most lavender in Provence is in bloom by late June. Luberon Valley is usually the first, followed by the Valensole fields.
JULY: By early July most of the region is covered in purple, with harvest starting in mid July and finishing around the 3rd week of July.
AUGUST: If you are visiting Provence in August, then head towards the Sault lavender fields - they tend to hold their blooms a little longer and get harvested early in the month.
LUBERON VALLEY
Luberon Valley is made up gently sloping hills with little villages on top overlooking the valleys. The lavender fields here are smaller and you will often find other crops nearby, creating a patchwork effect of purple, green and gold from the distance. There are a few stops along this route that are very popular tourist destinations because of the scenic backdrops to the long rows of lavender.
VALENSOLE
With vast open plains and rows of lavender that stretch into the horizon, the roads through Valensole offer many scenic viewpoints. The occasional tree or old building breaking up the purple makes this region a photographer's dream.
During the lavender festival in Valensole, the whole village comes out to celebrate the region's rich lavender heritage. Its a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
PAYS DE SAULT
Pays de Sault has higher elevation with a mix of sloping hills and the dramatic Mont Ventoux in the backdrop. With a 5km meandering lavender trail through the lavender fields, this region is perfect for easy exploration on foot or bike.
The lavender festival in Sault is a grand celebration of the flower, involving local producers and towns folk in the activities.
Tips for visiting the lavender fields
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, especially on hot days. Most restaurants are only open during lunch and dinner hours, so if you are delayed in your lavender field explorations, you might struggle to find somewhere to eat.
- Bring a picnic for your drive. Fields, like the Lavender Trail near Sault, have picnic areas, so you can enjoy your meal with scenic views and the scent of lavender.
- The lavender festivals often have kid-friendly activities and demonstrations, interesting parades and exciting food offerings. There are a few markets with lavender inspired products and local crafts. The festivals are a lively way to experience the lavender celebrations.
- Dogs are allowed on most fields but they must be leased.
- Be wary of the bees! They will be busy among the flowers and won't disturb you if you stick to the paths.
- Don't pick the lavender. Instead support the farms and the producers by buying local products which are made from home-grown flowers.
- Visit a lavender farm. Many offer guided tours and activities that are suitable for children.
- Early morning or late evening is the best time for photos. The light is softer and the crowds are fewer.
- The best time to visit is mid June to mid July for peak flower season. School holidays start in early July, so July is also peak tourist season.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as many fields have uneven terrain.
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